The National Crime Agency (NCA) has officially taken over the investigation into non-recent sexual abuse allegations involving former South Yorkshire Police officers, following a formal request by the force in coordination with the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The move aims to bolster public confidence and victim support in the sensitive and high-profile case, which has already seen three ex-officers arrested during the course of the inquiry.
? Investigation Background
The case stems from historic allegations of sexual abuse in Rotherham. A dedicated team within South Yorkshire Police’s Major Crime Unit has been conducting the investigation under the direction of the IOPC.
In a statement issued today (Friday 8 August), South Yorkshire Police confirmed that the NCA had accepted the request to take control of the operational work. The IOPC will retain overall direction of the investigation, now led by NCA officers.
The NCA already has strong investigative experience in Rotherham through Operation Stovewood, the agency’s long-running inquiry into organised child sexual exploitation in the town between 1997 and 2013.
Senior Police Comment
Assistant Chief Constable Hayley Barnett, the force’s gold commander for the operation, said:
“Victim survivors have steadfastly remained our number one priority. While our culture and workforce have changed dramatically since the historic failings in Rotherham, we recognise that our involvement may be a barrier for some survivors.”
“Concerns around the mode of investigation have put the force, not the survivors, at the centre of the narrative — this is not acceptable. The decision to hand over this work to the NCA is simply the right thing to do.”
Barnett acknowledged the trauma still faced by many survivors and stressed that victim trust and public confidence are central to the decision.
“This change is not a reflection of our confidence in our investigative team, but rather a reflection of our responsibility to do what’s best for survivors.”
Support and Reporting Options
South Yorkshire Police continues to urge anyone who has experienced sexual abuse — whether recent or historic — to come forward.
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To report directly: Call 101 or visit the South Yorkshire Police website
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Alternative options:
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Hackenthorpe Lodge (local Sexual Assault Referral Centre – SARC)
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IOPC
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Crimestoppers’ Police Anti-Corruption and Abuse Reporting Service
